Edwards Elected to Board of ABA Council of Appellate Lawyers

Chris Edwards of Ward and Smith, P.A., has been elected to the Executive Board of the American Bar Association’s Council of Appellate Lawyers (CAL). His term began in December. Edwards is a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Appellate Practice and co-chair of the firm’s Appellate Practice.

He is the author of “Appellate Thinking,” a column that appears regularly in NCAJ’s Trial Briefs magazine and leads a series of one-hour CLE webinars on appellate matters.

Edwards’ election reflects his deep experience and national reputation in appellate advocacy. His practice focuses exclusively on appellate litigation in both state and federal courts, with a particular emphasis on the U.S. Courts of Appeals. Trial lawyers and clients rely on him when cases move to a higher court—whether safeguarding a favorable judgment or challenging an adverse decision. He works closely with trial counsel from the earliest stages of litigation to preserve issues, develop appellate strategy, and ensure procedural precision.

In addition to representing parties on appeal, Chris is sought after for high-stakes amicus curiae work, partnering with advocacy organizations and trade groups to shape legal doctrine beyond individual disputes.